Day Camp Specialist

 

ABOUT THE GRAND TRAVERSE CONSERVATION DISTRICT
The Grand Traverse Conservation District (GTCD) is a community-serving organization that
cares for the people and places that make Northwest Michigan so special—our local farms,
our schools, and our exquisite rivers, lakes and natural areas. Our staff of education and
conservation experts deliver a variety of programs and services that serve our mission to
lead, facilitate and inspire exploration, appreciation, conservation and restoration of our
natural world.

POSITION SUMMARY
The Nature Day Camp Specialist works with the Education Team to further the mission of the
Grand Traverse Conservation District by supporting the activities of the Education Team, led
by the Education Director/Camp Director. Primary responsibilities include developing and
delivering environmental education programs, creating and maintaining signage and
exhibits, and representing the organization at the Boardman River Nature Center and
throughout the community.

RELATIONSHIPS
Reports to: Education Director
Works with: Education team, volunteers, campers
External Stakeholders: Parkland users, partner organizations, Nature Center visitors, Nature
Center program participants

RESPONSIBILITIES
The Nature Day Camp Specialist will:
- Assist with the development and delivery of environmental education programs for
K-12 students, teachers and the general public in a variety of settings.
- Assist with the development and delivery of up to ten (10), week-long summer day
camp programs for ages 5-12 year olds.
- Assist with GTCD special events, including retail sales and inventory as needed.
- Provide excellent customer service and develop positive and welcoming relationships
with Nature Center users, partners and other stakeholders.
- Assist with ensuring that camp licensing requirements are followed.
-Assist in cleanup of the Nature Center and grounds.

STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE
Success is measured by the degree to which the individual:
- Is punctual and is prepared to work.
- Creates and maintains a safe work environment.
- Completes work in a timely manner.
- Exhibits ability to work well with others.
- Follows State of Michigan Camp Licensing Guidelines
WORKING CONDITIONS
GTCD’s offices are located in the Boardman River Nature Center in Traverse City, MI. The
Nature Day Camp Specialist will frequently be in the field, which may involve traversing
uneven, boggy, and submerged terrain in wide ranges of air temperatures and weather. Will
require taking campers on field trips.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
Formal Education or Equivalent:
- Currently enrolled or recently graduated in Bachelor’s degree program in education,
ecology, biology, conservation, natural resources, or other related field, or possess
related work experience.
Positions Requirements:
- Able to work through August 21st, 2026
- Complete 30 hours training (required)
- Must be 18 years of age or older

Related Work Experience:
- Experience with the development and/or delivery of education programs for children
is strongly preferred;
- Customer service experience preferred;
- Knowledge of State of Michigan Camp Licensing Guidelines is strongly preferred;
- Experience with day camp programming within State of Michigan preferred;
- Knowledge of Northern Michigan natural surroundings required;
- Experience developing and delivering camp curriculum is strongly preferred.

Skills

The Nature Day Camp Specialist will have:
- Exceptional organization and presentation skills;
- Excellent oral, telephonic and written communication skills
- Excellent social and interpersonal skills; be a team player; and relate positively with
people of different ages, cultures and abilities;
- Working knowledge of natural history, child development, classroom management
and environmental stewardship preferred;
- Computer literacy including Microsoft Office, Google Suite and web applications;
- Current certification in CPR and basic first aid, or willingness and ability to acquire
these certifications.
Other:
- Safely operates a motor vehicle and is licensed to do so;
- Lifts and handles materials of up to 35 pounds without assistance;
- Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing, in the English language;
- Able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain;
- Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

COMPENSATION
The Nature Day Camp Specialist is a seasonal employee working up to 40 hours/week for up
to 12 weeks. This position is not exempt from overtime requirements with an hourly wage of
$15.00/hour. Seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits. Some evenings and weekend
work may be required.

PREFERRED START DATE: June 1st, 2026

TO APPLY

Please email completed application, resume, and cover letter stating your suitability for the
position based on required knowledge and skills to the Grand Traverse Conservation District
Education Director and Camp Director Rachel Straughen at rstraughen@gtcd.org. The
application can be found on the GTCD website https://natureiscalling.org/employment
*Applications accepted until positions are filled.

The Grand Traverse Conservation District provides equal employment opportunities to all
employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of
any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status,
genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any
other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.